By RODRICK DESURI
Auki
The Malaita Provincial Assembly kicked off its 11th assembly sitting yesterday.
According to the order paper, two speeches were delivered during the first session yesterday, one from Premier Elijah Asilaua and the other from his Finance Minister.
Premier Asilaua in his opening address said the province has moved forward through the strong commitments of everyone.
He said that as the province prepares for its new fiscal year 2026/2027, unity, collaboration, teamwork, and partnership is needed for the progress and well-being of the people.
Asilaua also said that his government, the Malaita Economic and Transformation Government, will not achieve development on its own as it requires a strong partnership built on mutual respect, cooperation, and a shared vision.
“Through our mutual cooperation and bilateral relationship, we can continue to strive for meaningful progress in improving the social and economic livelihood of our people.
“The 2026/2027 budget is more than just financial documents, it is a commitment that aims to deliver better services, strengthen governance, and invest in the future of our people, both in recurrent and capital development revenue and expenditures,” he said.
The provincial finance minister Lemuel Kevianga unveiled the original budget 2026/2027 budgetary estimates and the estimated figures that will be debated later.
“I am honoured indeed to take the opportunity to present before the floor of this honorable house one of the most important documents. The original budget 2026/27 budgetary estimate and the unveiling of the estimated figures, which will be debated in a later session.
“I would like to thank the MPGIS, the Minister, and his PS for a successful bid for a 5.5 percent increase across the country for the fixed service grant, increasing from $11,990,900 to $12,650,406 for this fiscal year for our province,” he said.
He said the new allocation is for ward support officers for all wards in this budget.
Today, the house will debate on the Premier’s and Finance Minister’s speeches and hold an answering and questioning session.
For feedback, contact: [email protected]
Editor: [email protected]
